Disabled Students’ Allowance

The university is validated to conduct needs assessments with UHI students eligible to apply for Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). This means that any eligible UHI student can have their needs assessed at their campus or learning centre, where appropriate, without necessarily travelling to an Access Centre elsewhere in Scotland.

Video Conference technologies can be used to support remote learners. In 2012, the university was awarded JISC's Innovation and Technology Award: Access and Inclusion for our case study on our approach to conducting DSA needs assessments with remote learners.

“Very easy process, staff are very helpful … Staff really know the process and are very knowledgeable.” (2017/18 DSA student)

“Was very happy with the service. Really felt like I was listened to and assessed with sensitivity and thought.” (2017/18 DSA student)

Further guidance is available to staff in the UHI Toolkit. (Login using your UHI network ID and password and search for the keyword ‘DSA’).

If you think you might be eligible to apply for DSA, you should contact the disability support contact at your Home Academic Partner in the first instance. Note that the referral and needs assessment process may take longer during busier periods.

Students who have had their needs assessed by the university can share their experiences via the university’s Red Button.

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